Hobgoblin vs Goblin - What’s the Difference?

These two have to be related, right? Goblin, Hobgoblin. Surely one is a subtype of another, or something like that?

Well, they may sound like siblings whose parents had a taste for matching names, but they are not even of the same species, neither in folklore and fantasy literature, nor in Dungeons & Dragons (D&D).

In folklore and fantasy literature, goblins and hobgoblins are often portrayed as distinct creatures, each possessing unique characteristics and origins. While both are typically depicted as mischievous or malevolent entities, they are generally not considered related to each other in a familial sense. 

Within Dungeons & Dragons (D&D), goblins and hobgoblins belong to the broader category of humanoid creatures known as goblinoids. Despite this categorization, they are distinct species with differing traits and roles within the game

Let’s describe goblin and hobgoblin characteristics in folklore and fantasy literature first and then move on to D&D.

What are Goblins?

Goblins are described as green creatures that resemble small, cute elves, similar to what Brazilians call "Duendes". They are known for their crude jokes and pranks on others.

In part of Norse folklore, goblins are often linked with evil forces. They are considered ugly and frightening sorcerers who spoil food and enjoy waging wars against gnomes (there is something up with Norse folklore. Everything is scary there!)

Goblins can be found in various environments such as mountains, swamps, forests, deserts, quarries, or even cities.

While goblins are often depicted as grotesque, evil, and malicious creatures, hobgoblins are more associated with mischief than malice. 

What are Hobgoblins?

The term "hobgoblin" first appeared in English in the early 16th century, combining "hob," a word meaning "sprite" or "elf" derived from the nickname Hobbe for Robert, with "goblin," a word ultimately from the Greek "kobalos," meaning "rogue."

They have other names in folklore such as Hobs, Bogies, or Boogeymen, depending on the region they were telling the story from. For example in French folklore, they are known as Lutins (translated as Brownies in English).

They are taller than Goblins, almost as tall as an average human. And often categorised as spirits taking the form of household animals like dogs, rabbits, or cats. Maybe the pet you bought recently is actually a hobgoblin. Be careful since they can be evil. However, you might be lucky and have one of those good ones who control the weather in your favour or shave your beard before you wake up. But if you are losing your stuff frequently and spend days to find them or your shoes get filled with pebbles without even going to the beach, then you might consider the odds of your pet being a hobgoblin. 

You can test your pets with salt, steel or iron. Hobgoblins are intolerable to their touch, and will definitely freak out!

And in DND?

In Dungeons & Dragons, hobgoblins are usually human-sized, lawful, honourable, and brave. They live in strict hierarchies with purposeful training. They have superior weapons and armour which makes them formidable in combat. 

Hobgoblins are typically reddish-brown in skin colour and are more intelligent and strategic than goblins. They often serve as leaders or commanders in goblinoid armies. They are proficient in combat, valuing good armour and weapons, and generally stronger than goblins in terms of combat prowess, tactics, and overall power. 

Hobgoblin fights resemble battles with disciplined soldiers; they take prisoners, surrender when necessary, and employ sophisticated tactics.

Goblins, on the other hand, are smaller, weaker, and more numerous than hobgoblins. They are known for their cunning, stealth, and love for mischief.

Goblins are often depicted as chaotic creatures that rely on sheer numbers, traps, and ambush tactics to overwhelm their enemies. They are typically small-sized, about 3-4 feet tall, with green skin. They are nimble, impulsive, and opportunistic. 

Goblins are usually portrayed as scouts, skirmishers, or minions in goblinoid societies and prefer being part of a large group for confidence. Their chaotic nature makes them untrustworthy and prone to betrayal for personal gain.

So, they’re completely different?

In the end, the difference between hobgoblins and goblins can vary depending on the specific edition of D&D and the Dungeon Master's (DM) interpretation, or the fantasy novel or folklore that you are reading.

But whichever it is, they are usually only related in name!